Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – February 19, 2026 – Engage PEO, a leading professional employer organization providing HR outsourcing solutions to small and mid-sized businesses nationwide, today announced the appointment of Rory Bakken as vice president of sales, Oregon, further expanding the company’s presence in the Western United States.
“Employers across the West are operating in one of the most complex regulatory environments in the country, with evolving employment laws, multi-state compliance challenges, and heightened expectations around workforce practices,” said Jay Starkman, CEO of Engage PEO. “Rory understands this landscape and the importance of helping employers navigate it with clear guidance and strong local partnerships. He supports our continued expansion in the West and our ability to serve employers facing increasingly complex HR requirements in the region.”
Bakken brings extensive experience in PEO-focused sales and workforce solutions, most recently serving as a senior PEO consultant in Oregon with a large national HR services provider. He has driven growth by helping employers evaluate HR outsourcing strategies in complex regulatory environments, working closely with insurance brokers, business consultants, and industry organizations. Known for his consultative approach, Bakken has also contributed to team development through training and mentorship, with a background spanning payroll, HR, benefits, and workforce operations.
“Businesses in Oregon and across the West need HR partners who understand both the regulatory landscape and the realities of running a business,” said Bakken. “What sets Engage apart is its HR consulting model, including access to experienced HR Consultants who are also licensed employment attorneys. That depth of guidance gives employers confidence as they navigate compliance challenges and make decisions that support long-term growth.”
About Engage PEO
Engage PEO delivers comprehensive HR solutions to small and mid-sized businesses nationwide, sharpening their competitive advantage. Comprised of the industry’s most respected veteran professional employer organization executives, certified HR professionals, and attorneys, Engage PEO provides hands-on, expert HR services and counsel to help clients minimize costs and maximize efficiency for stronger business performance. The company’s superior service offering includes a full range of payroll technology and tax administration, employer compliance, health and workers’ compensation insurance products, advanced technology, and risk management services as part of an extensive suite of HR services.
Engage PEO was among the first PEOs awarded the Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO) designation by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), ensuring greater benefits for small and mid-sized businesses such as tax advantages and financial protections. Engage PEO is also accredited by the Employer Services Assurance Corporation. Engage PEO was named to Inc. magazine’s list of the 5000 fastest-growing companies nine times since 2016. For more information on Engage PEO, visit www.engagepeo.com.